PEACEKEEPERS | 4ID Welcomes 65th Infantry ‘Stalwart” Battalion

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Patag Cagayan de Oro City (DWDD) – The AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command deployed an additional peacekeeping battalion to the 4th Infantry Division today, January 10, 2018, in an effort to allay fears of the people in Northern Mindanao on the threats posed by the terrorists NPA.

The 65th Infantry (Stalwart) Battalion of the 9th Infantry Division, Philippine Army headed by Ltc Richard B Rabaca was formally welcomed at the Hqs of the 4th Infantry Division. Aside from their traditional military operations against threat groups, the 500 strong soldiers boost the army’s capability in responding to natural and manmade calamities.

The deployment of 65IB would help hasten 4th infantry Division’s operations to defeat the terrorist NPA. The full might of the battalion shall be employed against armed terrorist, while the battalion will also initiate community-based dialogues to enlighten the members of illegal secret associations organized by the terrorist NPAs in the villages.

On behalf of MGen Ronald Villanueva, 4th Division Commander, the Assistant Division Commander for Operations, BGen Cristobal Zaragoza, warmly welcomed the officers, men, and women of 65th Inf Bn as he reminded them to maintain the Army’s highest standard of discipline as well as perform with excellence their mandate of protecting the people against all threats.

He said, “To all of you, soldiers of this battalion, we expect that you will always bear the professionalism as you execute your tasks. We support the intent of our Commander-in-Chief to protect the state and the people. Again, be reminded that you have to perform only your duty as a disciplined soldier.”

“Build bridges from among the people, earn their respect and gain friends. There is no room for any Human Rights violations. We have already gained an immeasurable people’s support in this part of the country. Don’t let one mistake destroy what we have sacrificed for our Country.” BGen Zaragoza underlined. 4DPAO / MCAG